The consequences of maltreatment can be experienced both in the short-term, in other words at the time the maltreatment occurs or shortly thereafter, or in the long-term. The person’s overall well-being can therefore be compromised over an extended period of time, even after the maltreatment has ended.
Physical consequences
- Temporary or permanent physical injuries
- Deteriorating health
- Decline in functional capacity
- Increased morbidity
- Mortality
- Trouble sleeping
- Increased alcohol use
- Exhaustion and lack of energy
Psychological consequences
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Poor self-esteem
- Sadness, low moral, unhappiness
- Suicidal thoughts
- Suicide attempts
- Growing sense of insecurity
- Stress
- Shame
- Guilt
- Disruption of healthy lifestyle habits related to mental health
- Feeling of loss of control over one’s life
Social consequences
- Loneliness
- Loss of contact with people in one’s social circle
- Developing a sense of mistrust
- Conflicts
- Growing dependency
- Trouble performing activities of daily living
- Change in living environment resulting in being separated from cherished indivi
Material or financial consequences
- Loss of financial resources
- Loss of material possessions
- Being deprived of basic necessities
- Debts
- Insolvency
- Bankruptcy
- Reluctance to have others manage one’s assets
- Expedited declaration of incapacity to manage one’s affairs